WASHINGTON - Gallaudet University athletics is proud to participate in the annual NCAA Division III Week (April 6-12) in an effort to celebrate the impact athletics and Bison student-athletes have on our campus and the surrounding community. GU is joining 426 Division III institutions and 42 voting conferences in this week's celebration.

To help focus on the many student-athletes that represent Gallaudet athletics we will spotlight several student-athletes each day this week. You will learn more about them as they express their feelings on what it is like to be a Division III student-athlete here at Gallaudet. Interviews were conducted by Gallaudet Athletic Communications Graduate Assistant Alyssa Marino and graphics by Athletic Communications Coordinator Bruce Saperstein and BoxOut Sports.

First year Mary Figueroa (Moreno Valley, Calif.) just completed her first year in the women's swimming program. Figueroa majors in communication studies and is expected to graduate in 2029.

In My Own Words: Mary Figueroa (Women's Swimming)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
MF: Being a student-athlete in college is busy but fun. I go to class and then to swim practice, and sometimes I have games or meets. It teaches me to work hard, manage my time, and be part of a team.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
MF: Being a student-athlete at Gallaudet University is great. Everyone communicates clearly, so it is easy to understand each other. I feel included and supported as part of the team.

Who is your favorite Athletics Department support staffer and why?
MF: My favorite Athletics Department support staffer is the athletic trainers. They help me stay healthy and make sure I'm okay. They are very kind and supportive, and they help me do my best in swimming and school.

Favorite thing about DC?
MF: My favorite thing about DC is the food and cafes. I like trying new places to eat. There are many different foods to enjoy.

2026 Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Words
Monday: Olivia Wascher (Softball) | Mary Figueroa (Women's Swimming)

About Division III Week
Division III Week is a positive opportunity for all individuals associated with Division III to observe and celebrate the impact of athletics and of student-athletes on the campus and surrounding community. During the week, every Division III school and conference office is encouraged to conduct a type of outreach activity that falls into one of three categories: academic accomplishment; athletic experience; or leadership/community service/campus involvement. For more information log onto https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2013/11/15/division-iii-week.aspx.

About Gallaudet
Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world. For more information about Gallaudet University please log onto www.gallaudet.edu and visit the Bison athletics homepage at www.gallaudetbison.com.